Chicken Cordon Bleu

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to about 1/4 inch thickness. Be careful not to tear the meat.

2. 2

   Season both sides of each flattened chicken breast with salt and pepper.

3. 3

   Assemble the rolls: Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast. Roll up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

4. 4

   Set up your breading station: Place flour in a shallow dish. Beat eggs in a second shallow dish. In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.

5. 5

   Bread the chicken: Coat each roll first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

6. 6

   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Heat oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

7. 7

   Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook another 3-4 minutes on the other side.

8. 8

   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the cheese is melted inside.

9. 9

   Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving. Slice on a diagonal to show the beautiful spiral of ham and cheese inside.